Cornrows are a timeless, iconic protective style that originated in Africa. The intricate, tight braids lie close to the scalp, allowing for versatility and freedom of movement. Cornrows can transform straight or curly hair into stunning sculptural looks. However, they work best on certain hair types and textures.
The history of cornrows
Cornrows have a rich cultural history dating back thousands of years. They originated as a functional style to keep hair tidy and out of the way for laboring, hunting, and battle. The rows were sometimes decorated with beads or cowrie shells as a form of cultural expression.
Cornrows were also used to indicate marital status, age, religion, wealth, and rank within West African communities. Distinct braiding patterns had deep cultural symbolism.
When enslaved Africans were brought to America, they maintained their hair braiding traditions as a connection to their heritage. The simplicity and adaptability of cornrows allowed African women to style their hair within the constraints of their social conditions.
Cornrows were stigmatized until the 1960s Black Pride movement reclaimed them as a symbol of beauty, strength, and unity. Celebrities like Cicely Tyson and Carrie Washington demonstrated the versatility of cornrows, fueling their popularity across all cultures.
Benefits of cornrows for natural hair
Cornrows offer many benefits for natural hair when done properly:
- Low manipulation. Cornrows don’t require daily styling and last for weeks at a time.
- Protection. Tight braiding protects the ends of hair from friction, splits, and tangles.
- Length retention. Less manipulation allows hair to grow longer without damage or breakage.
- Versatility. Add extensions, cuffs, beads or leave hair out for different looks.
- Neat styling. Cornrows keep hair tidy and off the face and neck.
The protective nature of cornrows makes them ideal for retaining length and allowing natural hair to thrive.
Hair type considerations
Certain hair characteristics make achieving clean, long-lasting cornrows easier:
| Hair Type | Cornrow Suitability |
|---|---|
| Type 3B-4C Coily | Best suited for cornrows. Tight curl pattern allows braids to hold. |
| Type 3A-3C Curly | Can work but may not hold as long. Try smaller cornrows. |
| Type 1A-2C Wavy to Loose Curly | Difficult. Hair is slick and straightens out easily. |
| Straight | Very challenging. Must be braided very tightly. |
Coily 3B-4C hair types are ideal for cornrows because the springs coil back on themselves. This allows the cornrows to hug the scalp neatly. Looser curl patterns can work but require smaller braids and may not last as long before loosening.
Other considerations for ideal cornrow hair
In addition to curl pattern, the following characteristics make cornrowing easier:
- Texture – Coarse, tightly curled hair holds better than fine strands
- Density – Thicker, denser hair is easier to grip than sparse hair
- Length – Longer hair (shoulder length+) gives the stylist more to work with
- Elasticity – Hair that stretches slightly and springs back resists loosening
Healthy hair in its natural state is also best since damaged, overprocessed, or previously straightened hair is much slicker and harder to cornrow neatly.
Technique is also key
A skilled cornrow stylist can achieve clean braids even on looser textures. Proper technique includes:
- Using small sections of hair for braiding
- Braiding hair tightly to the scalp
- Using holding products like gel during braiding
- Taking time to complete braids thoroughly
A professional stylist has experience cornrowing all hair types. Don’t be afraid to ask for small braids, tight cornrows, or extra holding products as needed.
Preparing hair for cornrows
Proper prep is key to achieving sleek, long-lasting cornrows:
- Shampoo and deep condition to maximize moisture
- Detangle completely using a brush, wide-tooth comb, or fingers
- Blow dry on low heat or air dry hair completely
- Use a holding gel or butter to smooth and lightly hold hair
Freshly washed, conditioned, detangled, and dried hair will cornrow and look its best. Products help neaten and prep the hair for braiding.
Maintenance between cornrow styles
Once cornrows are complete, maintenance is required to keep them looking fresh. Be sure to:
- Tie hair up at night with a silk scarf or bonnet
- Shampoo scalp regularly by diluting shampoo and gently massaging between braids
- Moisturize braids and ends with an oil or braid spray
- Gently pat in leave-in conditioner to hydrate braids
Don’t overwash, scrub too hard, or pick at your cornrows. Gentle haircare keeps braids neat and extends the life of your protective style.
| Style Duration | Recommended Maintenance |
|---|---|
| 2-3 weeks | Shampoo once weekly, moisturize & seal hair 2x a week |
| 4-6 weeks | Shampoo every 2 weeks, moisturize & seal 3x a week |
| 6-8 weeks | Shampoo every 3 weeks, moisturize & seal daily |
The longer you keep your cornrows in, the more maintenance required to keep hair and scalp healthy.
Take down carefully
Removing cornrows requires care to avoid damage and breakage after weeks of built-up tension:
- Soak braids in water mixed with conditioner to loosen
- Gently unravel braids starting from the ends
- Use a detangling spray or oil if snags occur
- Finger detangle to remove shed hair and smooth strands
- Shampoo, deep condition, and style as desired
Patience during take down prevents ripping, knots, and breakage after long term protective styling. Handle hair gently.
Are cornrows right for you?
Cornrows can beautifully transform hair when done properly on the right texture. Keep these tips in mind:
- Tightly coiled 3B-4C hair holds best
- Healthy, natural hair braids best
- Proper technique and maintenance maximizes longevity
- All hair types can achieve cornrows with an experienced stylist
Embrace the heritage and versatility of cornrows as a go-to protective style for natural hair. What’s your favorite look?
